According to recent data from Intelpoint, crude oil production in Nigeria remains heavily concentrated in a handful of states, particularly within the Niger Delta.

As Africa’s largest oil producer, Nigeria continues to depend significantly on crude oil exports for government revenue and foreign exchange earnings.

While new discoveries and exploration efforts are gradually expanding production to other regions, a core group of states still dominate Nigeria’s daily crude output.

Below are the top 10 oil-producing states ranked by their daily production levels.

Nigeria’s Leading Oil-Producing States

1. Akwa Ibom – 504,000 barrels per day (bpd)

Akwa Ibom remains Nigeria’s leading oil-producing state, largely due to its coastal position and extensive offshore reserves.

The state plays a strategic role in the country’s petroleum industry and contributes significantly to national production.

2. Delta – 346,000 bpd

Delta State hosts numerous oil fields and major operators, including multinational oil companies.

Its large deposits and long-standing infrastructure make it one of Nigeria’s biggest contributors to oil revenue.

3. Rivers – 344,000 bpd

Rivers State, with Port Harcourt as its capital, serves as a central hub for oil exploration, servicing, and refining.

The presence of refineries and oil servicing firms strengthens its importance in Nigeria’s oil sector.

4. Bayelsa – 290,000 bpd

Bayelsa, home to Nigeria’s first commercial oil discovery in Oloibiri, continues to be a major contributor despite its relatively small landmass. The state remains rich in crude oil deposits.

5. Ondo – 60,000 bpd

Ondo is one of the few oil-producing states in southwestern Nigeria.

Its offshore production contributes modestly but remains important to overall national output.

6. Lagos – 40,000 bpd

Lagos joined the list of oil-producing states in 2016 following offshore discoveries.

Although its output is still developing, Lagos holds potential for increased exploration and future expansion.

7. Edo – 33,000 bpd

Edo State contributes through both onshore and offshore production. Ongoing exploration projects could increase its output in the coming years.

8. Imo – 17,000 bpd

Imo State’s oil industry is still evolving. Despite relatively small production levels, the state holds potential for growth as exploration activities continue.

9. Abia – 11,000 bpd

Abia contributes a smaller share of crude oil but remains part of Nigeria’s broader production landscape. Continued exploration may boost its contribution over time.

10. Anambra – 3,000 bpd

Anambra is Nigeria’s newest oil-producing state. With an initial output of 3,000 barrels per day, the state is gradually building its oil industry and exploring opportunities for expansion.

Nigeria’s oil production remains largely concentrated in a few states, but ongoing exploration efforts suggest that more regions could join the list in the future, potentially changing the country’s energy landscape.